From dramatic plays to Michelin stars, Scotch whisky distilleries are now attracting tourists with a range of interactive attractions.
Tourism at Scotch whisky distilleries has undergone a significant transformation in recent years, offering visitors much more than traditional conveyor belt-style tours. Today, Scotland's distillers are offering increasingly creative and immersive experiences, incorporating elements of gastronomy, history, and even theatre to captivate their audiences. The popularity of whisky tourism is on the rise, with a record 2.16 million tourists visiting Scotch whisky distilleries in 2019, marking a two-thirds increase over the previous decade. With 68 out of Scotland's 140 whisky distilleries now featuring visitors' centers, there's a distillery and tour to suit every whisky enthusiast, from the Lowlands to the Highlands and Islands.
ARDBEG DISTILLERY
Located on the captivating island of Islay, offers visitors a breathtaking experience. Apart from its renowned whisky, one of the highlights of a visit to Ardbeg is standing on the pier, where on a clear day, visitors can enjoy views extending to the Mull of Kintyre and Northern Ireland.
The distillery has converted its old still house into part of its visitors' center displays, and they offer a range of tours, including self-guided "DIY tastings in a box" and picnic tours around the grounds. To enhance the experience, Ardbeg has introduced an 'Ard-stream' trailer serving food and drinks in the courtyard.
CLYDESIDE DISTILLERY
Located in Glasgow, seamlessly blends the old and the new. Housed in the pump house and tax office for the former Queen's dock, the distillery offers stunning views of the River Clyde from its glass box stillhouse. Inside, visitors can explore captivating displays that tell the story of Glasgow's wharfs and docks, rivaling those found in neighboring science or transport museums.
The distillery's chocolate and whisky tour is a unique experience, where guests can enjoy five different drams paired with handmade chocolates crafted by a local artisan chocolatier, Sugarsnap. This pairing allows visitors to discover how the flavors of the chocolates and whiskies complement each other.
GLENGOYNE DISTILLERY
Nestled near Killearn, offers visitors a chance to explore the beautiful Scottish countryside. During its "silent season," when the distillery shuts down for maintenance, Glengoyne runs Glenside nature tours through its grounds. Additionally, the distillery offers the Teapot Tour, which hearkens back to a time when distillery workers were given daily drams before the 1970s.
Visitors on these tours can enjoy the distillery's picturesque glen, featuring a hidden waterfall and mill pond. The tours combine captivating stories about the distillery's history, both legal and illicit, with nosings and tastings of a range of their Sherry-focused whiskies.
HIGHLAND PARK
Located on the Orkney Islands, is not only renowned for its exceptional whisky but also for its picturesque setting. With its cobbled courtyard and stone walls, it stands out as one of Scotland's most beautiful distilleries. One of the highlights of the tour is the floor maltings, where Highland Park still malt their own barley on-site. Visitors can immerse themselves in the whisky-making process and witness the traditional methods employed.
After visiting the distillery, guests can head out to Hobbister Moor, where Highland Park cuts its peat between April and September. If weather permits, visitors can even enjoy a paddle in the legendary Waulkmill Bay.
HOLYROOD DISTILLERY
Situated in Edinburgh, puts the brewing process at the forefront of its tour. The distillery celebrates the history of the breweries that once surrounded its site, showcasing the importance of this step in the whisky-making process. Holyrood is known for its experimentation with different yeasts and heritage barley varieties for its new-make spirit.
As part of the tour, visitors can taste a variety of these spirits, as well as the distillery's gins and cocktails, providing a comprehensive experience that delves into the flavors and innovations of Holyrood Distillery.
THE GLENALLACHIE DISTILLERY
Under the stewardship of whisky legend Billy Walker, has undergone a revitalization. In addition to giving the distillery a fresh coat of paint, Walker has added a bar and tasting lounge to its visitors' center, offering a contemporary space for whisky enthusiasts. With fascinating casks filling its warehouses, The GlenAllachie's Connoisseurs' Tour stands out among its trio of tours. Located on the outskirts of Aberlour, this distillery offers visitors a chance to experience the heart of the Speyside whisky region.
THE GLENTURRET DISTILLERY
Known as Scotland's oldest working distillery, offers an interactive experience for visitors. After a guided tour, guests can participate in the Whisky Maker's Tour, where they can put their blending skills to the test. Using five of Glenturret's casks, visitors can blend their own whisky to take home. The distillery is also renowned for its culinary offerings and is the only distillery in the world to hold a Michelin star for its food. Their menu creatively incorporates whisky, such as malted barley Paris-Brest and crisp yet fluffy salt and malt chips, adding an extra layer of indulgence to the visit.
THE MACALLAN DISTILLERY
Known for its striking architecture and innovative approach to whisky production, offers a tour experience that matches its reputation. To complement its architect-designed distillery, The Macallan has enlisted the services of professional actors to bring its historic story to life through promenade-style theatre performances. Visitors explore various locations around the estate, with highlights including a hearty picnic on the banks of the River Spey and a glimpse inside the awe-inspiring still room. The Macallan's attention to detail and immersive storytelling create a truly memorable experience for whisky enthusiasts.
These eight distilleries represent a small sample of the diverse and creative tours available at Scotch whisky distilleries across Scotland. Whether you're interested in history, gastronomy, or theatrical performances, there's a tour to suit every whisky lover's preferences. So, raise a glass and embark on an unforgettable journey through Scotland's rich whisky heritage.